Signature Mexico: Cultural heartlands to Caribbean coast
15 days from £4,485
Explore the tour day by day, from the highlights to the quieter moments in between. Here’s how each day unfolds and what to expect along the way.
You’ll be met at the airport by one of our local representatives and accompanied to your hotel. Mexico City, known by the local people simply as ‘DF’ (Distrito Federal), was built on the site of Tenochtitlan, the capital of the Aztec empire, and it lies at 2,250m above sea level. Vast, chaotic and vibrant, this sprawling megalopolis of more than 20 million people has a multitude of attractions.
Nothing can detract from the Zócalo Central’s brilliant location on the Zócalo (main square) in the capital’s historic centre, not far from the airport. It is built on the site of – and maintains remaining sections of – Emperor Moctezuma’s palace, later the residence of conquistador Hernán Cortés and the first house of Government, endowing the hotel with an illustrious heritage.
Times may have changed and past glory faded, but the décor and furnishings of most of the en suite rooms defer subtly to the building’s colonial past. Not all rooms have views, but there is no denying the wonderful vantage point over the Zócalo available to guests from the rooftop terrace restaurant and bar. The central location also allows you the pick of a wide array of bars and restaurants in the neighbourhood.
Mexico City has evolved over the centuries into a modern day metropolis from its founding as the Aztec city of Tenochtitlán in the 14th century. A history of agricultural cultivation, religious ritual, and warring tribes took a seismic turn with the arrival of the Spanish conquistadores and the development of the city was fuelled by silver mining. This is all reflected in the cultural vestiges apparent all over the modern cay city which you will glimpse during your guided city tour. Visit the vast Zócalo, or main square, monumental Metropolitan Cathedral and the original Aztec remains of the Templo Mayor, which lay beneath the modern city before being uncovered during the construction of the Mexico City Metro.
Passing through the northern suburbs of the capital, you head into the countryside towards the megalithic archaeological site of Teotihuacán which dates from the time of Christ and was once one of the largest cities in the world. Teotihuacán is hugely influential in the historic narrative of modern Mexico and, although it had already been abandoned by the time of the Aztecs, even this great empire held it in awe. Soak up the history as you stroll along the imposing Avenue of the Dead, leading to the vast Pyramid of the Sun, and take the opportunity to climb its vertiginous, ancient steps for a panorama of the ruins and the surrounding countryside.
Nothing can detract from the Zócalo Central’s brilliant location on the Zócalo (main square) in the capital’s historic centre, not far from the airport. It is built on the site of – and maintains remaining sections of – Emperor Moctezuma’s palace, later the residence of conquistador Hernán Cortés and the first house of Government, endowing the hotel with an illustrious heritage.
Times may have changed and past glory faded, but the décor and furnishings of most of the en suite rooms defer subtly to the building’s colonial past. Not all rooms have views, but there is no denying the wonderful vantage point over the Zócalo available to guests from the rooftop terrace restaurant and bar. The central location also allows you the pick of a wide array of bars and restaurants in the neighbourhood.
Today is free to explore on your own, or we can offer a range of optional excursions. Possibilities include the magnificent Museum of Anthropology (closed on Mondays). In our view this is one of the continent’s best museums, with presentations representing different regions, each featuring exhibits manifesting society in pre-Hispanic history and the colonial period as well as showing how life is lived in contemporary Mexico.
A visit to the ‘floating gardens’ of Xochimilco, a network of canals lined by fruit and flower gardens and markets, can be great fun – especially at weekends when residents of Mexico City flock to be transported in one of the colourful gondolas where they are serenaded by a mariachi band. You too will have the opportunity to glide through the canals at a lazy pace on one of these ‘trajineras’. Xochimilco was once connected to the Aztec capital of Tenochtitlan (now Mexico City) and was where they grew much of their food. Combined with a visit to Coyoacan and the Frida Kahlo Museum this is a great day out.
Nothing can detract from the Zócalo Central’s brilliant location on the Zócalo (main square) in the capital’s historic centre, not far from the airport. It is built on the site of – and maintains remaining sections of – Emperor Moctezuma’s palace, later the residence of conquistador Hernán Cortés and the first house of Government, endowing the hotel with an illustrious heritage.
Times may have changed and past glory faded, but the décor and furnishings of most of the en suite rooms defer subtly to the building’s colonial past. Not all rooms have views, but there is no denying the wonderful vantage point over the Zócalo available to guests from the rooftop terrace restaurant and bar. The central location also allows you the pick of a wide array of bars and restaurants in the neighbourhood.
Leave the capital by air and travel southeast towards the southern highlands and the city of Oaxaca, set among arid mountains.
The population in this area is still dominated by people of Zapotec and Mixtec descent, although the town has many examples of well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture, some fine museums and a thriving artistic community, as well as a wonderful climate. The peace and quiet of the cobbled streets is a welcome contrast to the busy capital.
Discover at your leisure the colonial delights of Oaxaca. You can get around easily on foot with the main square (zócalo), and the boulevard of Calle Alcalá being free from traffic. You might visit the city’s government palace, cathedral and Santo Domingo church, as well as its colourful food market. Oaxaca is a centre for Mexican art; there are also opportunities to buy gifts in some of its art and craft shops.
The agreeable little Casa Conzatti occupies a building inspired by the city’s prevailing colonial style of architecture. It is in a quiet corner of Oaxaca, next to a charming park and less than a kilometre from the main square.
There are three attractive villa-style blocks housing the restaurant and guest rooms, all sparkly clean with whitewashed walls, tiled flooring and an airy feel. Décor in the rooms themselves is simple with bright Mexican colours setting the tone. There are some nice extra facilities not always present in mid-range hotels, such as a tea and coffee maker in the rooms, free Wi-fi in the restaurant, safe, ironing kit and hair dryer.
As you enter the building there is a patio with table and chairs – a great suntrap on one of the city’s many clear and bright days. The roof terrace is also lovely, with views over the picturesque park.
Head out of town to nearby Monte Albán, the grand Zapotec ceremonial centre. Strategically located on an artificially levelled hill where three valleys meet, the site has superb views over the surrounding area. There is time to explore the pyramids, steep staircases, walls covered with strange carvings, burial chambers and temples. Although there is a theory that the main plaza was a religious ceremonial site, most of the imagery is decidedly militaristic, featuring tortured captives and devastated conquered settlements.
The agreeable little Casa Conzatti occupies a building inspired by the city’s prevailing colonial style of architecture. It is in a quiet corner of Oaxaca, next to a charming park and less than a kilometre from the main square.
There are three attractive villa-style blocks housing the restaurant and guest rooms, all sparkly clean with whitewashed walls, tiled flooring and an airy feel. Décor in the rooms themselves is simple with bright Mexican colours setting the tone. There are some nice extra facilities not always present in mid-range hotels, such as a tea and coffee maker in the rooms, free Wi-fi in the restaurant, safe, ironing kit and hair dryer.
As you enter the building there is a patio with table and chairs – a great suntrap on one of the city’s many clear and bright days. The roof terrace is also lovely, with views over the picturesque park.
Fly from Oaxaca to Tuxtla Gutierrez, a dynamic commercial city and capital of the state of Chiapas.
Drive to San Cristóbal de las Casas via a scenic drive through the Sumidero Canyon. The scenery becomes dramatic with some of the canyon walls towering over 800m.
San Cristóbal is a delightful town on many levels. Its striking location in a fertile valley bound by chunky mountains and its pleasant climate (altitude 2,100m) enhance the rustic charm of the graceful baroque and neoclassical homes, churches and public buildings.
But it is the mélange of cultures, Spanish and indigenous, reflected in the markets and craft-shops that is perhaps the biggest draw. A great place to ramble and relax.
The attractive Diego de Mazariego hotel is just a block from the main square of San Cristóbal de las Casas and within easy reach of all its attractions. The centrepiece of the main colonial building is a sun-drenched courtyard with a tinkling fountain, wooden pillars and bright, richly coloured walls.
Rooms are tastefully decorated, with the largest ones boasting fireplaces and French windows opening onto a small garden. Other areas of the hotel have a more traditionally Mexican look and reflect the building’s 18th century origins.
Facilities include two restaurants and a lively Tex-Mex bar with an extensive range of different types of tequila.
Begin your guided city tour at the pretty main plaza in San Cristóbal de las Casas. On the north side of the square is the cathedral, most recently restored in the 1920s after earthquake damage in the 1800s. You’ll also discover the Santo Domingo temple, a 16th century church with a beautiful pink exterior behind which the church is ornately decorated with gilded baroque features.
Browse the local market before travelling to the indian villages of San Juan Chamula and Zinacantán, about 10mins’ drive from San Cristóbal. San Juan Chamula is notable for local costumes: men in grey, black or light pink tunics, and women in blue. The church, a centre for numerous festivals and rituals, is well worth a look-in. The Sunday market is a popular tourist attraction. In Zinacantán, traditional costumes are also still worn: men wear embroidered red jackets and women, blue shawls. Photogenic but ask first!
The attractive Diego de Mazariego hotel is just a block from the main square of San Cristóbal de las Casas and within easy reach of all its attractions. The centrepiece of the main colonial building is a sun-drenched courtyard with a tinkling fountain, wooden pillars and bright, richly coloured walls.
Rooms are tastefully decorated, with the largest ones boasting fireplaces and French windows opening onto a small garden. Other areas of the hotel have a more traditionally Mexican look and reflect the building’s 18th century origins.
Facilities include two restaurants and a lively Tex-Mex bar with an extensive range of different types of tequila.
Today you’ll be driven from San Cristobal to Palenque, a journey of around 8 hours from the Chiapas highlands all the way down to the lowland jungles which mark the beginning of the Yucatan Peninsula. After a very early start take the mountain highway west towards Tuxtla Gutierrez, the start of the long descent towards the steamy lowlands of Mexico’s gulf coast and the city of Villahermosa.
With advance notice we can organise a detour to La Venta, one of the Mexico’s most distinguished open-air museums. Known for its collection of huge basalt Olmec heads believed to have been carved between 850-700BC, the park also has some intricately carved altars and stelae, set amongst the lush, landscaped tropical grounds. The relics were moved here from their previous location, an island in the Tonalá River, when petroleum was discovered in the late 1950s.
Arrive in Palenque during the middle of the afternoon with time to relax in the lush tropical grounds of your hotel.
Enveloped within the tropical environs of Palenque, the cabins and relaxation areas that make up the Chan Kah are spread throughout lushly overgrown gardens and framed by towering trees and palms. A stream trickles through the grounds and the surrounding jungle resounds with the calls of birds and monkeys.
Wood and stone cottages house guest rooms with spacious private bathrooms and patios and are linked by paths winding through the lush foliage. There’s also a restaurant and bar area and a free-form swimming pool fed by the river. It’s possible to walk to the ancient Mayan ruins of Palenque, which lie 4km away, or take public transportation.
Guided tour of Palenque ruins. The Mayan site of Palenque is set on a hill amongst lush green rainforest abundant with monkeys and birdlife, and a majority of the buildings remains unexcavated.
The temples that have been renovated are in remarkably good condition, the most impressive being the Templo de las Inscripciones . Also impressive is Temple 13 that houses a tomb and red-coloured skeleton believed to have been a queen.
Enveloped within the tropical environs of Palenque, the cabins and relaxation areas that make up the Chan Kah are spread throughout lushly overgrown gardens and framed by towering trees and palms. A stream trickles through the grounds and the surrounding jungle resounds with the calls of birds and monkeys.
Wood and stone cottages house guest rooms with spacious private bathrooms and patios and are linked by paths winding through the lush foliage. There’s also a restaurant and bar area and a free-form swimming pool fed by the river. It’s possible to walk to the ancient Mayan ruins of Palenque, which lie 4km away, or take public transportation.
Today’s drive to the coastal city of Campeche takes 5-6 hours along the main highway. The first few hours from Palenque take you through the tropical lowland plains of Tabasco state, the original seat of the Olmec civilisation. Dotted with palms and farmsteads this is cattle country, although Tabasco is also a major oil producing state.
Reaching the western edge of the Yucatan Peninsula, gulf coastal towns such as Champoton and Seybaplaya are popular resorts for locals escaping the heat. The approach road to the city of Campeche itself skirts the ocean, with some soothing views to prepare you for your arrival in the state capital.
Whilst its outskirts are typically sprawling, the historic core of colonial Campeche is an unsung delight – ever in the shadow of much more visited Merida. It makes for a very attractive stopover for the night. The 18-19th century walled central heart of Campeche is a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site – deservedly so. Many of the stately buildings, residences, public offices and churches have been restored, their elegant façades washed with pastel colours reflecting the luminosity of the Caribbean. There’s also a lovely waterfront promenade, along which citizens stroll or cycle at sunset.
Handsome colonial-style hotel ideally situated for exploring the historic centre of Campeche.
Close to the heart of the sultry port city of Campeche, the ochre façade of this traditional, colonial-style hotel sits easily with the colourful architecture of this relatively little-visited provincial capital. You’re just a stone’s throw from the city’s tightly woven grid of historic streets and the lovely Plaza de Independencia, with its cathedral and stately colonnades. The hotel has somewhat faded charm but has all you need for a brief visit, including comfy guest rooms equipped with air-con to deal with the gulf coast heat, a restaurant/bar and a small pool. Most junior suites come with a balcony or terrace.
It’s another 3 hours to Mérida, capital of the state of Yucatán. The city was founded by the Maya and named Tiho. In 1542 it was conquered by the Spanish conquistadores who dismantled the Mayan pyramids and used the stones as foundations for the cathedral.
Mérida then became an immensely wealthy city, described as the ‘Paris of the New World’. Its money came mainly from the production of sisal, cactus fibres that are used to make rope, and it was culturally and geographically isolated from the rest of the country until transport infrastructure reached it in the 1950s.
Today Mérida retains a lovely colonial centre, with a mix of opulent and crumbly buildings but it is a modern, bustling, thriving city, with lots of local character, some excellent places to eat and good shops and markets. The inhabitants, descendants of the Maya and the colonists, love a good fiesta, and you may well find one going on, with live music and market stalls, while you are there.
We recommend you take an optional guided excursion to the Mayan temple complex at Uxmal, 80km from Mérida.
The site is dominated by the majestic Pyramid of the Magician, alongside which is an elegant ‘nunnery’ quadrangle with Puuc-style complex stonework pieced together like a jigsaw puzzle. Strolling through the ruins, cradled in dense vegetation shading the visitor from the scorching sun is an almost mystical experience. Continue to Kabah, with its incredible Palace of Masks, with intricate mosaics representing the face of Chac the rain god 260 times.
From Mérida drive to Chichén Itzá (3 hrs), the grandest of all the Mayan sites, dominated by the huge, symmetrical, stepped El Castillo pyramid. The origins of the site are mysterious, and appear to have Toltec as well as Mayan influences.
It has the largest and best-preserved ball court in the Americas: the venue for an ancient ritual game that was played throughout the continent, but which is still not fully understood.
Archaeologists have not been able to determine whether the losers or winners were decapitated, but judging from the gory carvings along the base of the court’s walls, someone certainly came to an unpleasant end. There is also a huge sacred well. In the evening there is the option to return to the site for the Sound and Light Show.
Close to the world-famous Mayan ruins of Chichén Itzá, this converted 16th century property epitomises the peaceful, historic ambience of Mexico’s hacienda hotels.
Hacienda Chichen blends colonial style with ancient features, including original Mayan stone carvings hidden amidst its buildings and gardens. The 28 guestrooms are divided between rustic cottages dotted around the grounds and the main building. Rooms are very stylishly decorated, with iron bedsteads, large private bathroom and tiled terrace complete with rocking chair and hammock.
There’s also a pleasant patio restaurant beside the leafy pool terrace, and another dining option and sitting room in the main building. The traditional Mayan spa and organic garden is filled with tropical plants, much of which can be traced back to the collection of former owner and site archaeologist Edward Thompson.
Although the hotel is just a stone’s throw from Chichén Itzá, the nearest entry gate is 5km from the property.
Drive to Playa del Carmen on the Mayan Riviera (4hrs). As its name suggests, this stretch of white-sand coastline has been comprehensively developed for tourism, with varying degrees of success from an aesthetic point of view. Cancún is a sprawling resort of high-rise hotels and Disney-like themed bars and restaurants.
As you head south towards Tulum, the built up area thins out and there are some lovely exclusive hotel properties. Playa del Carmen, an hour’s drive south of Cancún, is a pleasant family resort with a lively pedestrianised centre overflowing with restaurants and bars.
If you fancy some beach-time, we recommend you extend your stay here for a few days. There are loads of activities and excursions, from visits to Mayan ruins to scuba diving.
These are easy to book locally. You might even hire a car for a day or two to have more flexibility to explore.
The well-loved small Petit Lafitte hotel, lauded for its friendly staff and restful atmosphere, is set on the secluded beaches of Playa Xcalacoco at a small yet significant remove from the lively resort of Playa del Carmen. The setting shares the Caribbean beauty of playa’s gleaming beachfront, yet the atmosphere is a world away from the all-inclusives that pervade nearby stretches of the Yucatán coastline.
Guest rooms are either within minimalist maisonette-style blocks or wooden cabañas with attractive decked walls and tiled floors. All are just steps away from the idyllic private beach, lapped by an ocean containing a mesmerising spectrum of turquoise hues.
The places you’ll stay and explore on this tour. Here’s a closer look at each one and what makes it worth the trip.
Mexico - Mexico City
Mexico City is one of the world’s great capital cities, where ancient civilisations, colonial heritage and contemporary culture converge. Built on the foundations of the Aztec capital of Tenochtitlán, this vast metropolis offers everything from historic architecture and world-class museums to vibrant neighbourhoods and exceptional gastronomy.
Mexico - Oaxaca
Few places in Mexico bring indigenous tradition, colonial architecture, exceptional food and ancient civilisations together quite like Oaxaca. Tucked beyond the Sierra Madre mountains in southern Mexico, it’s known for its colourful markets, artisan workshops, lively fiestas and remarkable archaeological heritage, all packed into one of the country’s most culturally rich regions.
Mexico - Chiapas, San Cristobal and Palenque
Chiapas is a stronghold of indigenous lifestyle, where jungle, rivers, canyons and lakes form the backdrop to traditional settlements and some of the finest pre-Columbian ruins in Mexico. From the highland streets of San Cristóbal de las Casas to the rainforest temples of Palenque, this is Chiapas Mexico at its most atmospheric.
Mexico - Mérida, Chichén Itzá and the Yucatan
Ancient Maya cities rise out of the jungle, colonial towns, and the Caribbean, this is the Yucatán Peninsula Mexico’s most varied region has to offer. Sites like Chichén Itzá, Uxmal and Tulum sit within easy reach of colonial Mérida and the Riviera Maya, making Yucatán Peninsula holidays one of the most rewarding trips.
Mexico - Caribbean coast: Riviera Maya and Holbox
White-sand beaches, turquoise waters and ancient Maya ruins meet along this stretch of Mexico’s Caribbean coast. Riviera Maya holidays run south from Cancún to the cliff-top ruins of Tulum, while Holbox Island offers a slower, sand-streeted alternative just off the northern tip of the Yucatán. This combines relaxation, nature and culture.
This jam-packed holiday visits the museums and teeming plazas of the megalopolis Mexico City, where Aztec and Spanish heritages sit side by side then moves on to the dramatic landscapes of the Sumidero Canyon to indigenous Oaxaca and colonial Mérida, gateway to the ruined jungle-cloaked Mayan temples.
Mexico is one of Latin America’s most vibrant and entertaining destinations, with a huge diversity of historical, cultural and natural attractions. Drive through the dramatic vertiginous landscapes of Sumidero canyon. Wander through the cobbled streets and soak up the colonial atmosphere in Oaxaca, Campeche and Mérida. Go on to explore the evocative ancient monuments, testament to bygone Mayan empires, which lay hidden and silent for centuries amid the deep valleys and jungles of the south. The journey ends on the white-sand beaches that fringe the Yucatán Peninsula.
Rosie Kay
All of our experts have lived or travelled extensively in Latin America, so you will receive unrivalled advice based on unique personal experiences.
The practical detail for this tour, all in one place. Transport, accommodation, what’s included and what to pack, so you know exactly what to expect before you go.
- Summary of Nights
15 days, 14 nights: Mexico City 3; Oaxaca 2; San Cristóbal 2; Palenque 2; Campeche 1; Mérida 2; Chichén Itzá 1; Playa del Carmen 1.
- Accommodation
We use a mix of hotel standards from mid-range upwards, choosing accommodation we think is great value, comfortable, well-located and which showcases a touch of local character. Properties will vary in heritage from modern to traditional-style countryside properties (haciendas).
- Transport
2 internal flights within Mexico; 3 scenic road journeys (longest 8hrs not including stops at places of interest).
- Meals
Breakfast daily.
- Guides
Our local, trusted and carefully selected partners understand the expectations of our customers very well, and their staff and guides are consistently singled out for praise by clients on their return. On this holiday, you will be joined by different guides for each activity and or region, ensuring you benefit from specialised expertise and knowledge, often from someone local to the area.
- Optional Excursions
As well as any included activities, this Private Journey includes some free time for optional excursions. As optional excursions are often subject to availability, we recommend you discuss and arrange them with your Travel Expert as early as possible before you depart.
- When is the best time to go to Mexico?
It’s a year-round destination. Over half the country enjoys temperate highland weather, while the coasts are mostly sunny, hot and relatively humid. The northwest has an arid desert climate. Elsewhere most rain falls from Jun to Sep though precipitation can be expected up to Nov. Hurricanes are possible around the Gulf of Mexico and Yucatán Peninsula Jul – Nov.
For more detailed information visit our When To Go section.
- What is the official language of Mexico?
The official language of Mexico is Spanish and indigenous languages.
- What is Mexico's official currency?
The official currency of Mexico is the Mexican peso. Notes can be withdrawn from the many ATMs using a UK credit or debit card.
Credit card or debit cards are widely accepted, although cash is still useful in Mexico. You’ll need some Pesos (or US$) cash for smaller expenses such as tips or souvenirs. Pesos can be obtained locally at ATMs or a Casa de Cambio. - What is the time difference between Mexico and the UK?
The time difference between the UK and Mexico is GMT-6 hours; ;and -7 hours in Southern Baja California and the Copper Canyon.
- Do I need a visa for Mexico?
Holders of a full British passport do not require a visa, although passports must be valid for at least 6 months after the trip begins.
If you are entering and/or leaving Mexico via a land border, you are required by the authorities to complete an electronic Forma Migratoria Múltiple (FMM) form via the Gobierno do Mexico portal on https://www.inm.gob.mx/fmme/publico/en/solicitud.html#
We recommend doing this several days before crossing the land border, as you need to upload a scan of your passport to complete the process and print the form once completed. If you arriving by air and leaving by land, you can ask our local partners to assist you with this process once you are in Mexico.
Anyone with a different nationality should ensuire with us or check with the relevant consulate.
If flying to the US, or via the US you will need to fill in your online ESTA application. - What vaccinations do I need for Mexico?
Please check Travel Health Pro for information on health recommendations and vaccinations for the destinations you are visiting. Please note that many Latin American countries require proof of vaccination against Yellow Fever if you have recently travelled to another country where Yellow Fever is present.
- What other countries combine well with Mexico?
A visit to neighbouring Belize, where there are luxury eco-lodges, superb diving and snorkelling all embraced in British Caribbean cultural heritage.
- What are the festivals, cultural and sporting events in Mexico?
Independence Day, 16 Sep Celebrations throughout the country.
Día de los Muertos, Day of the Dead, 1 – 2 Nov. Celebrated throughout the country.
Why choose Journey Latin America for your holiday
We’ve been planning trips to Central and South America for over 45 years, longer than any other UK specialist. Every holiday is built around you by a Travel Expert who has been to the places they recommend, with support from your first enquiry to the day you fly home.
Rosie embarked on a year-long backpacking trip across Latin America. She is excited to share her knowledge and experiences with others.
Finn discovered his passion for travel on an extensive 18-month trip to Latin America, experiencing the vibrant Carnaval in Rio, the end-of-the-world city of Ushuaia, trekking the Andes and volunteering on the Galápagos Islands.
Maggie visited Latin America on her first backpacking trip when she was 19. Since then, she has taken every opportunity to travel, and has managed to explore a lot of the region in subsequent trips.
Gary discovered what he had been missing with his first foray into the wilds of Latin America. In his role as Product Manager, he combines this personal obsession with years of industry experience to help ensure that travellers will fall for the region every bit as much as he has.
Things to do
We proudly offer the widest range of activities, excursions and one-of-a-kind experiences across all our destinations, tried and tested personally by our travel experts.
Wander past historic buildings and leafy plazas on a guided walking tour before visiting an authentic food market.
Visit a beautiful highland town where strong Mayan influences meet magnificent Spanish architecture.
Take a guided tour of one of the most impressive and atmospheric of all Mayan sites, reclaimed from the grip of the jungle.
Take a memorable dip in one of the Yucatán peninsula’s distinctive turquoise limestone sinkholes and visit a hacienda brimming with colonial character.
Take a guided tour of the ancient Zapotec city of Monte Albán, an important archaeological site with sweeping views from its mountain-top location.
Take a stroll through the historic plazas and boulevards of Mexico’s cosmopolitan capital, discovering the city’s Aztec foundations.
Accommodation
Browse our unrivalled portfolio of accommodation. Every option has been carefully chosen by our team of travel experts, so you can rest assured that you will relax in utter comfort
Enchanting 16th century hacienda with original Mayan stone carvings, perfect for history lovers, and a short ride from Chichén Itzá.
If there’s somewhere you particularly want to go that isn’t included in this tour, we can add on an extension to take you there.
Mexico beach
Spend a few days unwinding on Mexico’s Riviera Maya, with its long stretches of powder-white palm-fringed sand and turquoise seas of glassy translucence. The small town of Tulum offers a low-key beach alternative to the major resorts around Cancún. To cap it all, the well preserved and picture-perfect ruins of Tulum, a small, resilient Mayan…
A former Journey Latin America tour leader, Sally spent 7 years working, travelling and living throughout Latin America before returning to the UK to help people arrange their own adventures to this wonderful destination.
Papagaio
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